They use scripts.

There are two types of scripts I would recommend you become familiar with: javascript and cgi.

Javascript is very easy because it usually only requires that you cut and paste the script into your site. Javascript can be used to create mail forms, tickers, popups, etc.

Cgi scripts perform more complex operations. They can be used for anything from members areas to classifieds, message boards and more advanced chat.

If you can read and follow instructions, you can easily set up your own killer applications on your web site.

How do I know this? Because I learned how to use javascript and cgi by reading and following the instructions.

Certainly, not all scripts will be that easy. Start with the simpler ones and learn how to use them. Once you feel comfortable with the easier scripts, try using more complex ones.

The most important thing to remember when using scripts, particularly cgi, is that, you need to make sure you upload the files in ascii mode. Otherwise you can get some really nasty 500 internal server errors that can be difficult to solve.

JAVASCRIPT

Java
This site bills itself as the #1 java resource online. You'll find plenty of scripts for your site.

Java Boutique
Offers a number of applets and scripts including games. Very easy to use and set up.

CGI CGI Extremes
Searchable list of hundreds of cgi scripts.

Free Scripts
Hundreds of CGI scripts nicely organized by category.

6. Customer Support
Providing support for your customers and affiliates is one of the most important things you can do on your web site.

At one time I used Human Click on my web site. All of the top marketers recommended it.

Human Click changed to a pay model, and that left Bravenet as the only provider of free support.

A few weeks ago, when I was updating the messenger services on my computer, I stumbled across ICQ Panels.

ICQ Panels
Allows you to have a complete messaging system on your web site for your customers. This includes a place where customers can send you email, as well as chat with you in real time over the ICQ network. Customers can also easily page you, no matter where you are.

I found it much easier to use, and ICQ has so many features that you can have a complete messaging system for your business without shelling out any money.

You can see a live example on my site.

A Google-Type Ad Box - Your Keywords - Top 10 Placement A New Kind of Paid Inclusion from ExactSeek Sign Up Today and Receive FR'EE Bonus Software

7. Web Site Promotion
Sooner or later, once you have your web site set up, you'll want to attract new visitors. Unlike the baseball field in "Field of Dreams", you have to do more than just build it to get customers to it.

Once again, I am recommending ICQ. It offers you an opportunity to promote yourself in many different ways. Here is a list:

Promote Yourself and Your Homepage on ICQ
Join or Start an ICQ Ring
Join the ICQ Banner Exchange
Post Your Special ICQ Site
Post Yourself on Popular Search Engines

Building a web site can be a time consuming and expensive process. Without the right tools, you can end up with a web site that looks like a Picasso painting, instead of a professionally designed virtual business presence.

Use these tools, and you'll have an established web presence that will keep your visitors coming back for more.

About The Author
Jinger Jarrett is a former newspaper reporter and public relations specialist who now runs her own online businesses. She will show you "How to Really Start Your Business in 30 Days". Get her free ecourse now. SmallBusinessHowTo.com

Printer Friendly Version of this Article